Steve Bruce Speaks for First Time on Newcastle Takeover & His Future at St James' Park

Steve Bruce has spoken out for the first time about Newcastle's proposed Saudi takeover, stating that although he is still 'in the dark' about things, he backs himself as the man to lead the club should the deal be completed.

The Magpies prospective £300m takeover - fronted by Amanda Staveley and backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) - is currently in the hands of the Premier League.

The takeover hit a stumbling block earlier in the month, with links emerging between the Saudi government and a pirate TV platform that illegally streams Premier League matches.

"We've left it at that and gone back to work. I'm in the dark like most other people, and for that, I'm glad, really, because I can't comment on it. It's not worth talking about it as I really don't know."

Following the news of the proposed takeover, speculation began over whether Bruce - an appointment of current owner Mike Ashley - would maintain his position, or whether the new top brass would seek a more high profile manager.

"But to be in a position where you're actually challenging, and you have a good enough team as Newcastle did in 1995 and under Sir Bobby Robson as well, then it would be wonderful. I'd back myself, of course I would.

"Management, whether you're managing in the lower division or you're right at the top, it's about getting the best out of what you've got.

"And if you can do that, I'd back myself to have a crack at it. I'd be confident that I'd be able to do it. Whether that's ever going to be the case, who knows?"